English
2024/09/29
Mobile offices have become an essential feature on industrial sites. Often seen at construction locations, they serve as a comfortable oasis amidst the bustling work environment. These offices are also prevalent in remote areas, such as oil rigs or rural job sites. When selecting a portable office, businesses generally choose between two options: modified shipping container offices and mobile office trailers.
Many companies choose to rent mobile offices. However, if you anticipate needing a mobile office for three years or more, purchasing one might be more cost-effective. So, what can you expect to pay for a mobile office?
In terms of price, office trailers and office containers are comparable. For instance, consider a small 20-foot container office and a single-wide trailer office of similar length.
Given the comparable upfront cost, it’s important to consider other factors such as transportability, ease of setup, maintenance, and longevity. Continue reading to see how these aspects might influence your decision.
Mobile Office Trailers: A portable office trailer is relatively easy to relocate. It sits on a chassis, which is a frame with wheels and a towing hitch. This design allows for straightforward transportation using standard towing vehicles.
Modified Shipping Container Offices: Transporting a modified shipping container office is more complex and typically requires heavy machinery such as a forklift or, in some cases, a crane. Smaller container offices can be pulled on a trailer by a personal vehicle, while larger ones necessitate a tilt bed truck or flatbed truck.
1/Remote Deliveries: Deliveries to remote areas tend to be more expensive for both types of mobile offices.
2/Oversize Load Permits: Another cost factor is the potential need for oversize load permits. Shipping containers are designed to fit snugly onto truck beds and rarely require a permit. However, if a prefabricated mobile office trailer exceeds 8’6” in width, it would require a permit to operate on Texas highways.
Understanding these transportation logistics and associated costs can help you make a more informed decision when choosing between a mobile office trailer and a container office.
Container-Based Mobile Offices: Container-based mobile offices offer significant savings in long-term maintenance. They are designed to endure harsh environments with minimal upkeep, as they are originally built to travel the world multiple times over. The corten steel exterior is renowned for its durability, capable of withstanding various outdoor elements while protecting the interior.
Even after being modified into an office, the robust construction of a shipping container requires minimal maintenance. Typical tasks might include paint touch-ups or periodic roof inspections to clear debris and snow.
Mobile Office Trailers: A trailer office, on the other hand, requires more regular maintenance. The structure itself is not as durable as a container, necessitating frequent checks for cracks or shifts in the framing and interior, especially if the office is relocated often.
The trailer components are particularly crucial to maintain. With each move, the tires and axles on the chassis are subject to wear and tear. Neglecting these components can render the entire office trailer unusable until repairs are made.
1/Container Offices: Low maintenance, durable corten steel exterior, minimal upkeep tasks.
2/Office Trailers: Regular maintenance required, less durable structure, critical trailer component upkeep.
Understanding the maintenance requirements of each option can help you determine which mobile office solution best fits your long-term needs and budget.
